Think of the Pink Squirrel as the drink your grandma used to drink but make it chic. This retro gem blends almond‑flavored crème de noyaux (or amaretto), white crème de cacao, and heavy cream into a silky pink dream that's equal parts cocktail and dessert.
Whether you're hosting a throwback-themed party or just craving something sweet and sippable, this cocktail is a showstopper. And hey, it takes less effort than choosing between Netflix titles.
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Ingredients
- Optional: fresh nutmeg or a cherry for garnish
- 2 oz crème de noyaux (almond-style liqueur; amaretto works too)
- 1 oz white crème de cacao (chocolate liqueur, preferably clear)
- 1 oz heavy cream (or milk / half & half for lighter version)
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Silky-smooth: Almond meets chocolate meets cream in an iconic throwback flavor trio.
- Easy dessert cocktail: Only three ingredients and a couple shakes to sip-worthy.
- Nostalgia in a glass: It tastes like mid‑century supper clubs, but your couch.
Tips & Tricks
- Don't have crème de noyaux? Use amaretto plus a drop of red food coloring to get that pink hue.
- Lighter option: Swap cream for milk or half and half for a gentler sip.
- Frozen twist: For an over-the-top treat, blend with vanilla ice cream until smooth.
Watch Me Make This (41 Seconds)
Creative Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a coupe glass with nutmeg dusted on top for vintage elegance.
- Add whipped cream and a maraschino cherry to turn it into a cocktail sundae.
- Make a frozen version in a blender for a retro milkshake experience.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: In a cocktail shaker, add amaretto, grenadine, and crème de cacao. Shake until cold.
Step 2: Add half and half and swirl the glass to combine.
Step 3: Gently shake the tin to combine
Step 4: Pour into a martini glass
Step 5: Garnish and enjoy responsibly!
FAQs about the Pink Squirrel
Yes! Substitute crème de noyaux with a drop of almond extract and crème de cacao with chocolate syrup. Use cream or milk and blend for a smooth mocktail.
It's meant to be a silky, low‑proof dessert cocktail, not a heavy hitter.
Absolutely. Just scale proportions and shake in batches or a larger shaker.
This drink is credited to Byrant's Cocktail Lounge in Wisconsin.
Related Recipes
- B‑52 Shot - layered and nostalgic
- Nuts and Berries Cocktail - creamy, nutty, and sweet
- Toasted Almond Cocktail - another almond-forward classic
I hope you enjoy this Pink Squirrel recipe!
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Pink Squirrel
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Amaretto
- 1 splash Grenadine
- 1 ounce Creme de Cacao (White)
- 1 ounce half and half
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker with ice add Amaretto, Grenadine, and clear Creme de Cacao
- Shake until frosted
- Add half and half, but swirl to combine.
- Pour into cocktail glass and enjoy responsibly.
Shanika @ Orchids + Sweet Tea says
This drink looks so creamy and delicious! I really love how easy it is to make and the different variations that are available!
becomebetty says
Hey Shanika! Thanks so much. It's very creamy and delicious!
Demeter | Beaming Baker says
I am so loving the chocolate flavors in this! What a wonderful cocktail!
becomebetty says
Thanks Demeter! It's a great pairing of almond and chocolate flavors!
Danielle says
I haven't heard of it before but I am SO glad that I have stumbled upon it on your blog. Definitely the cocktail to try - it looks amazing!
becomebetty says
Thanks so much Danielle!
Helen @ family-friends-food.com says
This sounds lovely - it would be great as a dessert.
becomebetty says
Hey Helen! It really is a great dessert drink!
Heidy L. McCallum says
After the day I had yesterday, this would have been perfect to enjoy on my patio by the pool. Totally refreshing looking!
becomebetty says
Hey Heidy! It's a very refreshing drink. Thanks for stopping by!
Donnell Bourgoyne says
My parents used to make this drink when I was a little girl and I remember them letting me have sips of this delicious drink! They would come back from going out with friends and they mix the ingredients in a blender with the ice and crush the ice to tiny bits! Oh, was it the best! So excited to find it! Thanks so much!
becomebetty says
It's one of my favorites too! Thanks for sharing!